Turkey's hidden secret. Located mid-way between Gocek and Bodrum, Orhaniye (also known as Keci Buku) is a sleepy little town at the head of the Gulf of Hisaronu. Lots of little inlets to anchor in, some with restaurants and a pontoon, many with nothing at all.

Should you wish for the company of locals and a bit more ashore, then head for the towns of Datca and Bozburun. The scenic transfer from Dalaman takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes - well worth the journey!

The coastal area is interesting and varied, and there is plenty to explore, from the ruins of ancient cities to efficient modern marinas. Dine at a beach-side restaurant surrounded by pine trees in a peaceful bay, or sample sophisticated Ottoman dishes in a bustling resort. Snorkel and kayak in the clear waters around the rocky shores, buy your provisions in the colourful local market, and haggle over the price of a rug. With such diversity, it’s not surprising people come back to Turkey time after time.

Our Orhaniye & Bodrum Yacht Charter Fleet

Weather in Orhaniye

One of Turkey's greatest assets - the longest sailing season in the Mediterranean. Generally you can charter from the end of March through to early November. Warm days and cooler evenings in Spring and Autumn - expect the odd refreshing shower. From the June to September it can be hot, generally 30 degrees plus. Usually the winds pick up in the afternoon, easing off as the sun sets. Expect force 3-4 from the northwest, a little stronger if sailing between islands or near headlands. Forecasts are available by contacting base staff in the morning.

Charter Bases in Orhaniye

Nestled in the corner in Orhaniye, yachts are berthed at Cennet Marine Yacht Club. A lovely quiet spot, the marina has it's own Hotel, and just next door is a well stocked supermarket. Should you have a late arrival or just fancy spending the first night or two ashore, then rooms can be booked at very competitive rates. Your hosts Sara and Kevin look forward to weloming you to their part of the world! The excellent Saturday open market has locally grown fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, olives, cheeses and snacks, ideal for provisioning and sampling local foods. If Sara & Kevin's yachts are already booked (they do book early!) then we also have excellent options from Marti Marina.

Getting to Orhaniye

The nearest airport is Dalaman. Orhaniye is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by road from Dalaman Airport, or 3 hours from Bodrum Airport. Flights to Dalaman are plentiful by scheduled and charter flights from all over the UK and Europe. An option worth considering is to fly with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul - why not have a stopover for a few nights? Top Yacht can organise tours to see the Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and more. For clients travelling from further afield, Turkish Airlines operate direct flights globally to Istanbul with frequent onward connections to Dalaman. Transfers from Dalaman & Bodrum Airports can be arranged with your charter.

Start & Finish Days

Charters from Orhaniye generally run Saturday - Saturday although any day & duration is possible, along with one-way charters to Bodrum, Gocek and Fethiye, subject to availability.

Sailing Experience

As with all bareboat charters, prior experience of sailing a similar sized yacht is pre-requisite. A sailing resume will be asked for which can be completed on your booking form. The rules for sailing qualifications are always changing in Turkey, so we do ask that at least the skipper has a practical qualification such as RYA Day Skipper or an ICC, a copy of which we will ask for prior to the charter to obtain your transit log.

Currency

Is the Turkish Lira. In most towns ATM's are available. We suggest using credit/debit card where available and keeping some cash aside for the smaller establishments. Don't forget to haggle!

Local Taxes & Costs

Your charter fee will include any applicable taxes to the yacht. Most visitors to Turkey will require a visa which can be obtained online at www.evisa.gov.tr This is a multiple entry visa valid for 3 months. Once out sailing, overnight costs are minimal. If overnighting at a restaurant with it's own pontoon, there will be no charge if eating at the establishment. Similarly if at anchor or stern to in a bay there are not usually any fees. Take note of local info what you can tie up to - the area is mostly a national park and progressively over the last few years posts have been cemented to use, rather than lassoing an Olive Tree! At the end of your charter you will need to have your holding tanks pumped, the base staff will advise on procedures.